Churches targeted in latest crimewave

Burglars have targeted seven Hyndburn churches, stealing electrical equipment worth thousands and collection money. Police said the raids have all taken place in the last six weeks, while a nursery has been attacked twice.

Church-going Immanuel Coun Judith Addison said there was no excuse for stealing from churches or from charity.

She added: "I think it’s really despicable."

A spokesperson for the Blackburn Diocese said: "Churches are centres of community care and encouragement. Attacks through vandalism and theft are callous acts of destruction and desecration against the communities Christian churches seek to serve."

A police spokesperson said: "We are investigating these incidents and would urge anyone with information to come forward and contact the police either by calling us on 101 or calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."